Displaying items by tag: Asia

As the conflict in the Middle East continues, Donald Trump has alternated between signalling possible de-escalation and threatening further military action, leaving the situation highly uncertain. Increased military deployments in the Gulf region and continued strikes have heightened concerns about potential ground operations, particularly around strategic areas such as the Strait of Hormuz. Analysts warn that even limited intervention could quickly expand into a prolonged and wider conflict. Both sides are at least discussing possible terms for an end to the conflict, although their positions appear to be oceans apart: there are major differences over nuclear activity, regional influence, and security demands. The ongoing crisis has already disrupted global stability, affecting energy markets and trade routes, with rising fears of long-term instability if a peaceful resolution is not achieved.

Amid escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, the IDF’s plans to establish a buffer zone deep inside southern Lebanon have intensified fears of prolonged instability. Foreign minister Israel Katz, stating that the aim is to protect northern communities, has proposed military control up to the Litani River and the demolition of border villages even after the war with Hezbollah ends. Lebanese leaders and international voices have condemned the move, warning it risks further displacement and destruction. Since early March, widespread violence has resulted in significant casualties, including civilians, healthcare workers, and journalists, while more than a million people have been displaced. Critical infrastructure, including hospitals, has been severely affected, worsening an already fragile humanitarian situation. The crisis shows how civilians are bearing the heaviest burden as insecurity, loss, and uncertainty continue to shape daily life across affected areas.

Sectarian violence erupted on 28 March in Suqaylabiyah, a predominantly Christian town in Syria, following tensions involving two Muslim young men from the nearby town of Qalaat al-Madiq. Reports indicate that they started to harass Christian women; when Christian men attacked them in response, they went back to their town, returned with dozens of other men, and carried out coordinated attacks on homes, shops, and vehicles, while firing weapons and damaging a shrine dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Some sources alleged the involvement of national security personnel. Government forces were deployed to restore order, preventing further incursions despite continued attempts by surrounding groups. In response, leaders from several Christian traditions condemned the violence and cancelled public Easter celebrations, reflecting deep concern over safety. CSW’s founder president Mervyn Thomas has called on the Syrian authorities to increase their efforts to combat extremism and hate speech, and hold accountable all those involved in this attack.

In rural areas of Nepal, families living near protected forests face growing danger as tiger populations increase. Pushpa Tamang, a survivor of a brutal tiger attack in 2019, lives with severe disabilities and ongoing medical needs which her family cannot afford. Like others in neighbouring districts, her household struggles under heavy debt from treatment costs while navigating slow and inadequate government relief systems. Although Nepal has been praised internationally for its conservation efforts which have successfully expanded tiger numbers, local communities bear the consequences through injury, trauma, and financial hardship. Many rely on the forests for daily survival, increasing their exposure to risk. While some local authorities offer limited support, gaps remain significant. The situation highlights a deep tension between conservation success and human vulnerability.

Iran has rejected claims by Donald Trump that negotiations are under way to end the conflict, with military spokesperson Ebrahim Zolfaqari accusing Washington of ‘negotiating with itself’ to mask failure. While US officials suggest progress and reports indicate a proposed plan involving limits on Iran’s nuclear and missile programmes, Iranian leaders insist no direct or indirect talks have taken place. Confusion persists as regional actors, including Pakistan and Turkey, reportedly act as intermediaries, passing messages in hopes of de-escalation. Meanwhile, hostilities continue, with Israel and Iran exchanging strikes and civilian casualties reported. The US is also increasing its military presence in the region, highlighting the tension between diplomatic signals and ongoing conflict, and underscoring the fragility of any potential path toward peace.

The effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran has disrupted global energy supplies, sending oil prices higher and straining economies, especially across Asia. With nearly 90% of shipments through the strait destined for the region, countries such as the Philippines, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and India are facing fuel shortages and rising costs. Governments have introduced emergency measures, including reduced working hours, remote work policies, and fuel rationing. The crisis has deeply affected everyday livelihoods, with drivers, farmers, factory workers, and small businesses struggling to cope. Industries have slowed or shut down, while long queues for fuel and rising living costs have increased uncertainty. Though the conflict is geographically distant, its economic impact is immediate, exposing the vulnerability of global energy systems and the fragile balance many communities depend on.

Israel’s assassination of Ali Larijani, a central figure in Iran’s political and security establishment, will be a devastating body blow to the country, probably even more than the loss of the supreme leader Ali Khamenei at the outset of the war. Known for his ability to bridge factions within Iran’s complex system, he played a key role linking military and civilian authorities while maintaining influence with international partners. His loss removes a figure seen as capable of navigating both internal divisions and external pressures. He had supported diplomatic engagement alongside firm internal control, positioning himself as a pragmatic voice amid hardline elements. His absence could strengthen more hardline forces, complicating any path towards stability or ceasefire. News update: on 18 March Iran’s intelligence minister, Esmail Khatib, was killed in an air strike. See

Iran’s clerical leaders have moved quickly to appoint a new Supreme Leader after Ali Khamenei was killed in Israeli and American strikes on the opening day of the conflict. His successor is his 56-year-old son, Mojtaba Khamenei. For years he has been influential behind the scenes, often described as a gatekeeper to his father and closely connected to key centres of power. His wife Zahra was reportedly killed in the same Israeli air strike that killed his father. Although he lacks broad public recognition and has never held elected office, reports indicate he has the backing of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, the powerful security force which underpins the state. His appointment is likely to reinforce the existing direction of Iran’s leadership during a period of intense regional conflict and internal pressure. Observers note that many Iranians who have called for reform will see little sign of change in this appointment, which might give Donald Trump a strategic advantage in his war of words with Tehran. Breaking news: on 12 March, a message was read out on state television, said to come from the new Supreme Leader, vowing that Iran would fight on. See

Christians in Pakistan are using theatre to proclaim the Gospel through a growing creative movement centred in Karachi. The Othniel School of Biblical Art (OSBA) is preparing its 2026 season of 'Journey to Salvation', a large-scale musical production presenting the story of Jesus from Creation to the Ascension using only Bible verses. Scheduled for 7–15 March at the National Academy of Performing Arts, the production combines drama, music, and worship to bring Scripture to life on stage. Since its launch, the ministry has expanded rapidly, reaching thousands through dozens of performances and launching a Christian art gallery to encourage faith-inspired creativity. Over 110 actors from diverse backgrounds have participated, reflecting the unity of Pakistan’s Christian community. Organisers expect the 2026 performances to reach more than 8,000 attendees, with potential media exposure to millions across the country. Despite financial and cultural challenges faced by Christians as a minority, the movement continues to grow. Leaders believe theatre can help younger generations encounter the message of Christ in powerful, memorable ways.

The Middle East has entered a new period of instability following joint United States and Israeli strikes on Iran which reportedly killed more than a thousand people and triggered retaliatory attacks across the region. Among those killed was Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, leaving uncertainty about the future leadership of the country. The strikes, described by US and Israeli officials as necessary to address security threats, have drawn global attention and concern. Iran has responded with missile and drone attacks targeting military installations and other sites across several countries in the region. The escalation has disrupted diplomatic efforts surrounding Iran’s nuclear programme and raised fears of a wider conflict. Civilians across the Middle East face growing risks as violence spreads, while thousands of foreign nationals have struggled to leave affected areas. The conflict has also shaken global energy markets and travel networks, reflecting the far-reaching consequences of the crisis. Recent news: at least 87 were killed when a US submarine sank an Iranian tanker (see), and the US Senate voted against a bipartisan measure which would have limited Trump’s war powers (see).